A comprehensive study of fire and rescue services in Rockbridge County is underway, with the objective of developing a strategic plan to ensure operational efficiency and equitable allocation of resources.
The Board of Supervisors on Nov. 10 authorized County Administrator Spencer Suter to execute a contract with AP Triton LLC, deemed the most qualified firm who responded to requests for proposals Proposals were evaluated by a fivemember scoring team composed of county officials. The top two ranked firms were interviewed by the county’s Procurement Coordinator Amy Milliner, Fire-Rescue Administrative Assistant Bailey Trent and Fire-Rescue Chief Nathan Ramsey.
At the Nov. 10 Board of Supervisors meeting, Ramsey noted that the last such study was conducted in 2007. Since then, he pointed out, the county’s population, infrastructure and emergency response demands have grown significantly. The volunteer Fire-EMS Association unanimously voted to support pursuing a new plan. The proposed cost for the study is $79,832, which is below the amount budgeted.
The study is intended to achieve the following objectives:
• Assess current operations, staffing, response capabilities and system performance.
• Identify service gaps, evolving risks, growth impacts and opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Recommend strategies supporting volunteer recruitment and retention.
• Enhance preparedness for increased call demands.
• Provide actionable guidance for the next five- and 10-year periods.
